Burning Regulations and Forms

Help reduce human-caused wildfires in Alaska and "Take the Time to LEARN Before you Burn".

Burn permits are required by law during Alaska’s fire season from April 1st through August 31st, and at other times of the year as designated by the Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources. This permit is required on state, municipal, or private lands where burning may not be subject to other federal, state, or local laws and regulations that are more restrictive. Gustavus has no local laws or rules regarding burning, so Gustavus residents are required to comply with the State Department of Forestry's burning requirements.

• Small-scale burn Permits are required for burn barrels, burning a maintained lawn of less than 1 acre, and a brush pile of organic material not exceeding 10 feet in diameter by 4 feet in height.
• Large-scale burn Permits are required for any burning of wooded debris that exceeds the size and/or complexity of the small-scale burn Permit, including agricultural parcels, land clearing, logging operations, and contractor certification burning.
• Alaska Wildland Fire protection laws apply year-round, and safe burning guidelines must be followed even when permits are not required. Burn permits are required on all state, municipal, borough, city, and private parcels not covered under local or federal laws.

It is important to read the information on the permit, then print and sign the document. If you need help printing the permit, please visit the Gustavus Fire Hall, and the Fire Chief will be happy to assist you. 

Be sure to keep the signed permit with you throughout the burning season; you do not need to submit it to anyone. However, if you plan to burn brush or a lawn, please email gvfd@gustavus-ak.gov. In your email, include the location of your burn, the expected completion time, and your current location.

See the state recommendations for safe burning practices here. Burn permits can be downloaded online at this link.